Joe Schmos
/dʒoʊ ʃmoʊz/
NOUN
1. Ordinary or insignificant people
Informal and mildly dismissive term for ordinary, unremarkable people who lack wealth, influence, prestige, or special distinction.
1.1. Average members of the general public
Refers casually to everyday people who represent the common public rather than celebrities, experts, wealthy individuals, or powerful figures.
Synonyms
- average Joes
- Joe Blows
- Joe Six-Packs
- John Does
- everymen
- commoners
- ordinary people
- little guys
- men in the street
- plain Janes
- common folk
- everyday people
Antonyms
Examples
- The new policy affects everyone, even Joe Schmos like us.
- The event was designed for Joe Schmos to have a chance to shine.
- Even Joe Schmos can make a difference with the right support.
- The proposal seemed to be aimed at Joe Schmos rather than experts in the field.
- Joe Schmos from all walks of life were invited to participate in the discussion.
Related Words
- general public
- populace
- ordinary citizens
- working class
- common people
- social elite
- privileged class
1.2. Working-class or socially insignificant people
Used disparagingly to describe ordinary workers or people regarded as having little social status, authority, or importance.
Synonyms
- little men
- plebeians
- plebs
- proles
- proletarians
- peons
- laborers
- workers
Antonyms
Examples
- The wealthy executives rarely considered how their decisions affected ordinary workers and Joe Schmos.
- The novel portrays the struggles of Joe Schmos living under an unequal social system.
Related Words
- working class
- labor force
- lower class
- social hierarchy
- economic status